Detectives investigating a savage attack on a teenage asylum seeker have released images of three people they want to speak to in connection with the assault.

The woman and two men are being sought after a 17-year-old Kurdish Iranian was attacked by a gang of 20 youths outside the Goat pub in Shrublands Avenue at 11.40pm on Friday, March 31.

He suffered serious injuries after being repeatedly hit in the face and head.

Two of the victim’s friends were able to escape the scene with minor injuries.

Read more: Six arrested after frenzied attack on teenage asylum seeker

Paramedics arrived shortly afterwards and took the boy to a south London hospital where he remains.

His condition was described as serious but stable and is not believed to be life-threatening.

Nine people have been arrested in connection with the investigation as of Monday, April 3.

Detective Inspector Gary Castle, from Croydon CID, said: "Whilst arrests have been made, we now know that a large number of people, approximately 20, were involved in the attack on the victim.

"A number of them approached the victim as he waited at a bus stop with two friends outside the Goat Public House in Shrublands.

"It is understood that the suspects asked the victim where he was from and when they established that he was an asylum seeker they chased him and launched a brutal attack. He sustained serious head and facial injuries as a result of this attack, which included repeated blows to the head by a large group of attackers.

"A number of people came to the aid of the victim as he lay unconscious and injured following the assault. Two friends of the victim managed to escape the attackers and suffered only minor injuries. There are no other reported injuries.

"If you can help identify any of these people please call my team without delay.

"All communities stand together against hate. No one should be subjected to violent behaviour, especially those who have come to London to seek refuge and a place of safety."

If you have any information call Croydon Police on 020 3276 2234, or 101. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.